The opening of the Gather exhibition at the historic Castlemaine Market Place on May 3 was an outstanding success.
Gather brings together 11 local makers connected by community who take unique approaches to creating through their chosen materials.
Artists featured include Ann Ferguson, Catherine O’Leary, Catherine Pilgrim, Charlotte Harriman, Deb Lemcke, Emily Fong, Gina Pederick, Kate Just, Kathy Landvogt, Marg Ridgway and Robin Landvogt.
VCA and University of Melbourne lecturer, Castlemaine local and contributor to the exhibition, Kate Just, was honoured to officially open the exhibition and said the craft and textiles on show in Gather offered us a space to reflect on the unique role of textiles as a space of truth, respite, care and community.
“Across these deeply considered, time-intensive textile works by these 11 artists is a sense of connection, self expression and hope,” Kate said.
“Strong feminist themes, the connection between women friends, family members and artists also permeate the show,” she said.
Many visitors to the exhibition commented on how the show curated by Deb Lemcke complemented the beautiful Market Building.
Deb said stitching, crafting and creating with others was the best.
“We would love for people to join our public stitching circles, which will continue this Saturday May 17 and Sunday May 18 from 10am to 12 noon in the lovely Market Building space!
“You don’t need any experience, just some curiosity. Materials will be provided, but you are also welcome to bring a project you are working on. It could be a great chance to finish that scarf you started last autumn, or to enjoy some conversation and creativity,” she said.
No bookings are necessary.
WeStitch is a small group of women who meet regularly in Castlemaine’s West End to stitch and connect. Guided by the values of community and care, the Sunday gatherings have become a highlight, and they want to share this sense of togetherness with others.
The group is starting a project to create a community based artwork with and for the new Castlemaine Safe Space.
The idea is that through the public stitching circles held during Gather and at monthly workshops around Castlemaine, they will produce a significant artwork to be housed at the Castlemaine Safe Space and showcased as part of a public exhibition in 2026.
Call in this weekend and take a look and join a stitching circle!
The exhibition is open 9-5 daily until this Sunday May 18.
